Subscriber Discussion

Access Credentials ID Numbers Rubbing Off. Is There A Good Option?

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David Schlegel
•Feb 01, 2019

I've got a client who is fed up of his Kantech P-40 Keyfobs, simply because the ID number rubs off them relatively quick.  In my experience, I've never worked with a fob or card where the number didn't wear off eventually, so I'm trying to educate him on this and teach him how to scan an unknown card to find the ID number. 

However, I am curious; has anyone worked with a brand or specific credential that still had the ID number clearly written years after the fact?  The way most people use keyfobs and take them in and out of pockets/purses all day, I can't possibly imagine one that was still legible after 5 years, but I'd love to know if such a beast exists.

Cheers!

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Brian Rhodes
•Feb 01, 2019
IPVMU Certified

Some suppliers use Laser Embossing or Dot Peen Marking that actually indent the marks into fobs or cards.  Those type of marks don't rub off.

(1)
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David Schlegel
•Feb 01, 2019
In reply to Brian Rhodes

Thanks Brian.  Do you happen to know any examples of manufacturers who use these methods?

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Brian Rhodes
•Feb 01, 2019
IPVMU Certified
In reply to David Schlegel

I know HID does.  They offer the option between engraving and dot-matrix ink on many products:

(1)
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Mark McRae
•Feb 01, 2019
Inaxsys Security Systems
In reply to David Schlegel

All of ICT's cards are laser etched so the card numbers are there forever.

(1)
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David Schlegel
•Feb 01, 2019
In reply to Mark McRae

Great, thanks Mark!

U
Undisclosed #1
•Feb 01, 2019
IPVMU Certified
In reply to Brian Rhodes

Dot Peen

Is that like a teeny, weeny ball peen hammer?

(2)
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Brian Rhodes
•Feb 01, 2019
IPVMU Certified
In reply to Undisclosed #1

(1)
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David Schlegel
•Feb 01, 2019

Great!  Thanks so much for your input!

(1)
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Scott Lindley
•Feb 05, 2019
Farpointe Data, Inc.

Hi David-

A good option in two words: laser etching.

A laser can be used to etch, a bit like engraving, the ID numbers directly onto/into a plastic access credential.  This is a neat alternative to traditional ink jet printing, as the laser etched ID numbers can not be simply rubbed off.

Even better - consider laser etching the ID number into a recessed well on the credential.  This will offer further protection from the abrasive and demanding operating environment experienced by a fob on a key ring.

Here's an image:

Please know you are not alone.  ID numbers rubbing off credentials is an age old problem in the dynamic world of electronic access control.

Good luck and hope this helps!

-Scott

(1)
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David Schlegel
•Feb 05, 2019
In reply to Scott Lindley

Thanks Scott, that makes a lot of sense! Looks like HID and a couple of other manufacturers offer this feature on certain tags. Very good to know!

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